A proposed passenger rail corridor linking Salisbury and Asheville would generate thousands of jobs and hundreds of millions of dollars in economic activity if developed, according to a new study by the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) Rail Division.
The Western North Carolina Rail Corridor Economic Impact Report examines the potential effects of restoring passenger rail service across the western part of the state. The planned route would connect communities in western North Carolina with existing intercity rail services serving Charlotte, the Piedmont Triad and the Research Triangle.
The proposed route of passenger rail service for the western part of North Carolina
© North Carolina Department of Transportation
Jason Orthner, NCDOT Rail Division director said:
The Western NC rail corridor presents a unique opportunity to strengthen regional connectivity, support local economies, and create a more resilient and dynamic transportation system for North Carolina. The interest this route is receiving underscores the opportunity to better connect western North Carolina to the state’s existing intercity passenger rail network.
The study estimates that capital investment in the Salisbury-to-Asheville corridor would support construction activity and related supply chains over the life of the project. During the construction phase, the report projects an average annual impact of 5,270 jobs, approximately 360.5 million USD in employee earnings, and 1.05 billion USD in total economic output. State and local tax revenues linked to this activity are estimated at 33.6 million USD.
Once operational, the rail line is forecast to continue contributing to the regional economy through ongoing service and maintenance. The report projects around 200 sustained jobs each year, with annual employee earnings of 23.4 million USD and economic output of 66.9 million USD. Recurring state and local tax revenues are estimated at 2.1 million USD per year.
Meanwhile, improved rail access could increase travel options for residents, commuters and visitors, while also supporting tourism and business travel to the Blue Ridge region. The corridor would also provide an alternative mode of transport linking western counties with major urban centres.
The project does not currently have secured funding, and no construction timeline has been announced.